SMEP Resources

Understanding visible light and microbe-driven degradation mechanisms of polyurethane plastics
Understanding visible light and microbe-driven degradation mechanisms of polyurethane plastics Pathways, property changes, and product analysis Developed under the SMEP-funded GIVO-Warwick project, lead by the University of Warwick, the below study investigates the role of microorganisms in the degradation of plastics. The accumulation of polyurethane plastics (PU-PS) in the environment

Biodegradation of microplastics derived from controlled release fertiliser coating
Biodegradation of microplastics derived from controlled release fertiliser coating Selective microbial colonisation and metabolism in plastisphere Developed under the SMEP-funded GIVO-Warwick project, lead by the University of Warwick, the below study assesses the degradation process of controlled-release fertiliser (CRF) derived microplastics in soil. Coated controlled-release fertilisers are widely used in

The operating performance of Modified Basalt Fibres bio-nest reactor exposed to nano-plastics
The operating performance of Modified Basalt Fibres (MBF) bio-nest reactor exposed to nano-plastics Developed under the SMEP-funded GIVO-Warwick project, lead by the University of Warwick, the below study is the first of its kind assessing Modified Basalt Fibre (MBF) bio-nests treating wastewater with exposure to nano plastic. Biological nests made

Policy and Regulatory Environment for Enhancing Adoption of Resource Efficiency and Cleaner Production
The Kenyan National Cleaner Production Centre (KNCPC) hosted a workshop to discuss and align policies and regulations for scaling Resource Efficient and Cleaner Production (RECP) and membrane technology adoption in enterprises to mitigate pollution in the Nairobi River Basin. This Workshop Report provides an overview of the event as well

A showcase of SMEP’s work in the plastics policy landscape: A model for impact
Plastic pollution is a global crisis, with production on the rise and waste management struggling to keep up. The SMEP Programme aims to address plastic pollution by advancing the plastic policy, and this report provides an overview of SMEP’s role in the plastics policy landscape.

Plastic Substitution: Current Initiatives and Potential Options for the Pacific
Plastic pollution is perhaps one of the most significant environmental concerns across the Pacific region. This report developed by UNDP and UNCTAD provides an overview of current initiatives and potential plastic substitution options for the Pacific Region, including examples from SMEP-grantee GAIA Biomaterials and Catchgreen.